Family Adventure in Gothenburg: Exploring Sweden's Coastal Gem

Gothenburg's Heights and Depths

Today was a day of contrasts, a journey from the depths of natural history to the heights of Gothenburg's historical defenses. It’s amazing how much a city can offer in just a single day, and I was determined to soak it all in with Greta and Marko. Plus, I was eager to try some new restaurants.

Our day began, as usual, with breakfast at the Scandic Goteborg Central. It's incredibly convenient, and Marko loves the variety. Fuelled up, we set off for the Gothenburg Museum of Natural History.


Discover comfort and convenience at Scandic Goteborg Central, a perfect base for exploring Gothenburg's vibrant culture and attractions.

I was particularly excited about this, as I've always been fascinated by the natural world, and I wanted to share that passion with Marko.

The Gothenburg Museum of Natural History turned out to be a treasure trove. From the moment we stepped inside, we were greeted by an array of exhibits showcasing the incredible diversity of life on Earth. Marko was immediately captivated by the whale skeletons and the dioramas of various animal habitats. I found myself drawn to the exhibits on Swedish wildlife, learning about species I never knew existed in this part of the world.


Explore the diverse exhibits and stunning artifacts at the Gothenburg Museum of Natural History, a must-visit destination for nature enthusiasts.

We spent a good few hours wandering through the museum, marveling at the sheer scale of the collections. Marko was particularly fascinated by the stuffed animals, especially the big cats and the primates. He kept asking questions about where they lived and what they ate, which was a great opportunity to teach him about different ecosystems and the importance of conservation.

The best view comes after the hardest climb.

After the museum, it was time for lunch. We headed to Gyllene Prag, a Czech restaurant I had read about. I was intrigued by the idea of trying some traditional Czech cuisine, and the reviews seemed promising. The restaurant had a cozy, unpretentious atmosphere, and the staff were friendly and welcoming. I ordered the wiener schnitzel, while Greta opted for the fried cheese, a Czech specialty. Marko, of course, wanted the bacon. The portions were generous, and the food was hearty and flavorful. It was a perfect midday meal to recharge our batteries.


Experience authentic Czech cuisine at Gyllene Prag in Gothenburg—where every dish tells a story of tradition and flavor.

Following our satisfying lunch, we decided to conquer Skansen Kronan. The fortress sits atop a hill, offering panoramic views of Gothenburg. The walk up was a bit of a climb, but the promise of stunning vistas kept us going. Marko, ever the energetic one, raced ahead, eager to reach the top.


Discover the historical charm and breathtaking views at Skansen Kronan, Gothenburg's iconic fortress and cultural landmark.

Skansen Kronan itself is a fascinating piece of history. Built in the late 17th century, it was designed to defend Gothenburg from potential Danish attacks. However, it was never actually attacked, so its cannons never saw action. Today, it serves as a historical monument and a popular spot for tourists and locals alike.

The views from the top were indeed breathtaking. We could see the entire city spread out before us, with its charming red-roofed buildings, winding canals, and bustling harbor. I pointed out various landmarks to Marko, telling him about their history and significance. He was particularly impressed by the bridges and the ships in the harbor.

After soaking in the views and taking plenty of photos, we made our way back down the hill. It was time for a bit of souvenir shopping. We stopped by SOUVENIR GOTHENBURG, a small shop near the city center. Marko picked out a small toy Viking ship, while Greta found a beautiful hand-painted ceramic plate. I opted for a Gothenburg fridge magnet to add to my collection.


Explore the charm of Gothenburg with unique souvenirs, local crafts, and delightful gifts at Souvenir Gothenburg, your one-stop shop for memories.

As the day drew to a close, we prepared for our special dinner at Koka. This Michelin-starred restaurant promised a culinary experience like no other. I had made the reservation weeks in advance, eager to sample their innovative take on modern Swedish cuisine.


Experience the best of modern Swedish cuisine at Koka in Gothenburg - where organic ingredients meet culinary excellence.

Koka turned out to be everything I had hoped for and more. The restaurant had a sophisticated yet relaxed ambiance, with warm lighting and minimalist decor. The tasting menu was a work of art, each dish a carefully crafted masterpiece of flavors and textures. We savored every bite, marveling at the chef's creativity and skill. The emphasis on local and seasonal ingredients was evident in every dish, and the wine pairings were expertly chosen.

One dish that stood out was the seared scallops with brown butter and sea buckthorn. The scallops were perfectly cooked, and the combination of sweet, nutty, and tart flavors was simply divine. Another highlight was the reindeer tartare with juniper and lingonberries. The reindeer was incredibly tender, and the earthy, slightly gamey flavor was perfectly balanced by the juniper and lingonberries.

Greta and I were in heaven, while Marko, surprisingly, was also enjoying the experience. He even tried some of the more adventurous dishes, though he still preferred the simpler flavors. The staff were incredibly attentive and accommodating, making sure Marko had something he liked to eat.

As we walked back to the hotel, full and content, I reflected on the day. It had been a whirlwind of experiences, from the natural wonders of the museum to the historical heights of Skansen Kronan, culminating in the culinary delights of Koka. It was a day that showcased the best of Gothenburg, and I was grateful to have shared it with my family.

Tomorrow, we're planning to delve into Gothenburg's maritime history with a visit to the Maritime Museum & Aquarium. Then, we'll explore Feskekörka, the iconic fish market, and end the day with dinner at Upper House Dining and drinks at The Flying Barrel Pub. I'm already looking forward to another day of adventure and discovery in this amazing city.

Even though I am still missing an adapter for the Swedish outlets, I am glad I remembered to bring travel games for Marko. As I always say:

Travel isn't always pretty. It isn't always comfortable. Sometimes it hurts, it even breaks your heart. But that's okay. The journey changes you; it should change you. It leaves marks in your memory, in your consciousness, in your heart, and on your body. You take something with you. Hopefully, you leave something good behind.

Good night from Gothenburg!